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Date: 8/1/2023
SPRINGFIELD — Xiomara Albán DeLobato is representing Hampden County as one of nine members on the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority Board of Directors.
On June 29, Gov. Maura Healy appointed seven new members, which included DeLobato.
A press release from Healey’s office stated, “The new appointees bring a range of experiences and are majority women and people of color.”
MCCA owns the MassMutual Center locally as well as the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, The Lawn On D powered by Citizens Bank, Lot On D, the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center, and the Boston Common Garage.
The mission of the MCCA is to “generate significant regional economic activity by attracting conventions, trade shows and other events to its world-class facilities while maximizing the investment return for the residents and businesses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,” said MCCA.
Healey explained, “The MCCA Board of Directors has a critical role to play in supporting the growth of this industry and cultivating a welcoming environment for all guests, employees and vendors.”
DeLobato was sworn into her new position on July 18. Like most processes with any state committee or board, she shared that her name came up as an option to join the board of directors, although she is unsure as to who made the recommendation.
“I was absolutely honored and surprised,” DeLobato said.
She noted that her role is “very thorough” and comes with the authority of support, providing guidance and more.
The MassMutual Center, which falls in DeLobato’s jurisdiction, hosts a variety of events and welcomes visitors from all over the world.
DeLobato said tourism is a “big priority” of the Healey administration.
“The MassMutual Center has welcomed so many headliners, hosted incredible events over the years … [The] vision is seeing that amplified,” she added.
DeLobato went on to say that the Springfield convention center is a “hub” for entertainment and community. She shared that “a lot of good work is already happening.”
As the MassMutual Center works closely with MGM Springfield, DeLobato said she does not know too much about the partnership but is looking forward to learning more. However, she shared that it seems to be “positively managed,” and the teams work well together.
In addition to this role, DeLobato is the vice president and chief of staff for the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council.
“I am very, considerably excited about this board … There’s incredible talent,” DeLobato said. With the diversification of the members, she believes that it will bring a different perspective to the board, which will assist in future planning.
DeLobato said she is hopeful the public enjoys the work that will be done.
If a constituent wants to see something specific at the convention center, DeLobato encourages them to reach out with ideas. To contact the MCCA, visit massconvention.com.
The board of directors hosts monthly meetings, with only one that has taken place since the seven new members were appointed.
Healey said, “We are proud to appoint this talented group of leaders who are committed to supporting the economic growth of our state and applying an equity lens to everything they do.”
Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll added, “These seven appointees bring diverse experiences and backgrounds to the table that will be invaluable in supporting the equitable growth of the conventions, trades and events industry in Massachusetts.”
The MCCA is governed by a 13-member board of directors — nine members are appointed by the governor, two members are appointed by the Mayor of Boston, and two [ex officio] members are the Secretary of Administration and Finance and the Collector-Treasurer of the City of Boston or their designees. The MCCA board is responsible for appointing an executive director to serve as the MCCA chief executive officer.